Flu Clinic underway at DeKalb County Health Department

Walk-ins will be gladly accepted. Pregnant women and the elderly are also at high risk. Vaccines will be available while supplies last. However, because scientists must predict the most common virus strains, the vaccine is never effective against all forms of the flu.

Persons with mobility issues can receive the vaccine in their automobile, if requested. FluMist (intranasal) vaccine were available for patients age 2 to 49 at a charge of $55.00. Pre-registration is required for the district office clinics.The Health District will accept Aetna, Cigna, ConnectiCare, Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Medicare Part B. We are not able to accept Medicare Advantage plans, Oxford or United HealthCare. For my information call 910-798-6646.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention predicted this year’s flu vaccine would be “much better” suited to fight circulating strains of the flu virus, according to Marc Itskowitz, an internal medicine physician at Allegheny General Hospital.

Fellow Adams County resident Charlotte Waack says convenience is key when it comes to getting the flu shot early. Vaccination can reduce incidents of flu illnesses and help to avoid missed work and school, as well as prevent hospitalizations in most people. “The time to get vaccinated is now”. Your child’s doctor or other health care professional can tell you whether your child needs two doses.

An annual influenza vaccination is recommended for everyone, beginning with children six months old. They can also help to prevent serious flu-related complications, like pneumonia. Flu activity varies each year, often starting in the fall and peaking in February.

There are several flu vaccine options for the 2015-2016 flu season. “That protects against four types of flu instead of three types of flu, that other places and we had a year ago”.

“The 2014-15 Influenza vaccine for H3N2 was not a good match”. These conditions tend to lead to more exposure to flu germs that spread much easier in close quarters. It is approved for people 18 through 64 years of age.